Woodford Green – rubbish chute fire

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Four fire engine and 21 firefighters and officers were called to a rubbish chute fire in a block of flats on Navestock Crescent in Woodford Green last night.

Fire investigators believe the fire started in the rubbish chute between the seventh and eighth floors of the block. They think the fire was most likely caused by the careless disposal of a cigarette placed into a rubbish bag.

Fire crews contained the fire to the chute and there were no reported injuries. Around 15 people evacuated the block before firefighters arrived but were quickly back in their unaffected flats.

London Fire Brigade spokesperson said:

“Last year around three fires a day in London were linked to smoking and half of accidental fire deaths were related to careless disposal of cigarettes.

“It’s absolutely vital you ensure your cigarette is completely out when you’ve finished smoking it. If you don’t, you risk causing a fire which could not only destroy your home, but also cost you your life.”

The Brigade was called at 2326 and the fire was under control by 0110. Fire crews from Woodford, Chingford, Leytonstone and Tottenham fire stations attended the incident.